A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kaunas vs. Brussels for Food, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Kaunas or Brussels?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kaunas and Brussels. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kaunas

Kaunas is a cultural, active, and young city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife and food. See Kaunas travel costs.

Brussels

Brussels is a historic, cosmopolitan, and authentic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Brussels travel costs.

Kaunas and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kaunas or Brussels?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brussels than Kaunas. Brussels is bigger than Kaunas, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brussels is more touristy than Kaunas and is known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. Also, Brussels is famous for La Grand Place (Grote Markt). Kaunas is well known for its traditional Lithuanian culture and authentic old town.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Kaunas different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Brussels and Kaunas. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kaunas or Brussels?

Brussels is notable for its sights and museums. However, Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Kaunas or Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brussels is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Brussels is an experience not to be missed. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Kaunas. It is a great place to try traditional Lithuanian dishes as there are a number of good restaurants and an active restaurant scene. Popular local dishes include cepelinai potato dumplings and cold beetroot soup.

Is Kaunas or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are notable in both Kaunas and Brussels.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kaunas. The nightlife scene continues to improve with a growing number of bars and clubs. During the warmer months you'll find many places opening outdoor areas. The old town is one of the more lively areas in town where it's nice to enjoy a drink on a terrace.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Brussels. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Kaunas or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is notable for its historic old town charm. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Kaunas is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town has tree-lined streets with charming cafes and a number of museums. It's also where you'll find the Kaunas Castle.

Is the Shopping Better in Kaunas or Brussels?

Brussels is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city for shopping.

Brussels is a world class destination for shoppers. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Kaunas is a good destination for shopping. The old town is the place to pick up souvenirs, but there are also shopping malls and outlets in the city.

Is Kaunas or Brussels Better for Families?

Brussels is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Brussels is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Kaunas is a family-friendly city. The city has both outdoor and indoor areas that are fun for kids. Vienybės Square has fountains and splash areas that are fun for kids of all ages. Lampėdis Lake is a great place to swim or visit an adventure park. When the weather isn't great, you can head indoors to the the Kaunas Tadas Ivanauskas Zoological Museum or "CurioCity" in the Mega Mall.

Is Kaunas or Brussels Better for Couples?

Brussels is notable for couples. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city for romance.

Brussels is a very popular place to visit for couples. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

Kaunas is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a number of historical sites as well as interesting restaurants that you can explore.

Is Kaunas or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is notable for backpackers. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Brussels is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kaunas. It's not a popular destination, but there are enough concerts and festivals throughout the year that it does see a few tourists.

Is Kaunas or Brussels Better for Students?

Brussels is notable for students. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Plenty of students visit Kaunas. The city has a vibrant and young student population. It also hosts festivals, concerts, and other events that make it a fun destination for international students.

Is Kaunas or Brussels Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brussels is renowned for its public transit. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Brussels has a great public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Kaunas has some public transit options. There are both buses and trolleybuses around town.

Is Kaunas or Brussels a more walkable city?

Brussels is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

Brussels is a very walkable destination. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

Kaunas is somewhat walkable. When the weather is nice, the city is a nice place to take a walk.

For even more information, also check out Is Kaunas Worth Visiting? and Is Brussels Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Kaunas?

How long in Kaunas or Brussels?

In either Kaunas or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than Kaunas because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Kaunas, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Kaunas. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Brussels, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Brussels than Kaunas. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Brussels that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels than Kaunas if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Brussels.

One day in Kaunas or Brussels?

The city of Kaunas offers food and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Brussels is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Kaunas or Brussels?

Kaunas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kaunas, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Kaunas or Brussels?

Kaunas is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Kaunas or Brussels?

Kaunas is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic big city of Brussels. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Lithuania, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vilnius, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Belgium.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kaunas and Brussels, we can see that Brussels is more expensive. And not only is Kaunas much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kaunas would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kaunas and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Brussels would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brussels than you might in Kaunas.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kaunas Expensive? and Is Brussels Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kaunas or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Kaunas. When comparing the sizes of Kaunas and Brussels, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Kaunas or Brussels?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Kaunas or Brussels in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kaunas and Brussels. The summer months attract visitors to Kaunas because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

In the summer, Kaunas is around the same temperature as Brussels. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kaunas in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Brussels averages at about 18°C (65°F).

In Kaunas, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kaunas usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during summer. Kaunas gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kaunas usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brussels. Kaunas gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kaunas or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kaunas as well as Brussels. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Kaunas this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Kaunas is generally much colder than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Kaunas average around 8°C (46°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Kaunas often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Kaunas gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets less rain in October than Brussels. Kaunas gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kaunas or Brussels in the Winter?

Both Brussels and Kaunas are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Kaunas for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Brussels can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Kaunas. Kaunas is much colder than Brussels in the winter. The daily temperature in Kaunas averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Kaunas usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during winter. Kaunas gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kaunas usually receives less rain than Brussels. Kaunas gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kaunas or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Kaunas during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Kaunas in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Kaunas is cooler than Brussels. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kaunas in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Brussels averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Kaunas often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Kaunas gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

Kaunas usually gets less rain in April than Brussels. Kaunas gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Kaunas